Azure Fundamentals vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure Fundamentals
AZ-900
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Fundamentals | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
Get Azure Fundamentals if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$6,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Get CompTIA Security+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Fundamentals harder than CompTIA Security+?
Both Azure Fundamentals and CompTIA Security+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Azure Fundamentals or CompTIA Security+?
Azure Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CompTIA Security+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Fundamentals or CompTIA Security+?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Security+.